About
Gymnocalycium saglionis, the giant chin cactus, is a flattened, globose cactus with 10�30 or more tubercled ribs and clusters of stout, often curved, dark spines. Broad, funnel-shaped, pale-pink flowers 2 cm across appear in early summer. One of the larger and more spectacular of the chin cacti for a sunny greenhouse bench.
About the genus
Gymnocalycium are spherical or cylindrical cacti from South America with ribs divided into rounded, spiny tubercles and funnel-shaped flowers, mainly in shades of pink, white or red, in early summer. Popular, easy-care cacti for a sunny greenhouse bench or windowsill.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, North-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeCactus Succulent, Conservatory Greenhouse
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants
Native toNW Argentina
Care notes
CultivationGrow under glass in a standard cactus compost, in bright, filtered light, with good ventilation. Water freely in spring and summer and apply a low-nitrogen liquid feed every month. Keep dry in winter
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed sown at 19 - 24°C in early spring, or by removing offsets in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to mealybugs
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free